Opening Segment:
Sheamus starts off Smackdown talking about his path to the WWE. He talks about overcoming bullying and how he is now headlining WrestleMania. He will not decide until after Elimination Chamber. Wade Barrett comes out and says Sheamus should pick the WWE Champion because he will be World Heavyweight Champion. Cody Rhodes comes out. talks about being the IC Champion and how he brought prestige back to it. He talks about being duel champion, and then Big Show's music hits. He talks up Sheamus and says to think about them headlining Mania. Cody and Wade make fun of Big Show's WrestleMania matches, and a fight breaks out. Sheamus and Show clear the ring.
What I Liked:
Even though it is unlikely Bryan will lose at Elimination Chamber, I really liked how they spotlighted their top talent in the very first segment. Building the PPV and building the night was a smart idea with these guys. Wade and Sheamus work well together in all facets. Rhodes did not talk much, but you could tell they wanted all of these guys to be a focal point on the show. Let us believe any of them can win. Give the fans some suspense. Orton and Bryan fight later in the night, so the other four needed something to do.
What I Disliked:
I do see why Sheamus is over currently, but I wish he was taken more seriously, and not like a smiling face all the time. We know he is a face, but give him some sort of badass mentality heading into WrestleMania. He needs to face some sort of adversity, as he is always the controller of matches and feuds. I want to see vulnerability from him, not necessarily losing, but struggle a little more and let him overcome the odds.
Grade: B
The Great Khali def. Jinder Mahal:
What I Liked:
There was nothing relevant here. Khali hit a few moves and was able to pick up an easy victory over Mahal.
What I Disliked:
Khali fights a one on one match against Mahal while the other participants interact with one another. Yeah, they obviously just wanted Khali in the match for what reason? I still stand firm in saying this is a complete waste, and I know that nobody will really disagree.
Grade: D
Teddy Long is backstage with Aksana. Daniel Bryan comes in and says he feels sick because he smelled the Barbeque that Long had before the match. He tries to weasel his way out of his match, but to no success.
